The San Juan National Forest in southwestern Colorado will shut down for the first time in its 113-year history.

I closed the Burro Bridge Campground on Monday. So sad. Told the marmot about the fire. Cleaned the toilets. Burro Bridge has no cell phone service, so I thought I should close before I had to flee. On Tuesday all campers in all campgrounds had to be out by noon.

Aside from closing a campground and packing up there is the question of employment. Do we hang around and hope the campgrounds re open? Many of the hosts are scattering (“Well, I haven’t been to Kansas lately.” “I have always wanted to see Oregon, so I’ll head up there.”). What will happen if the NF is reopened? I will be hanging around, hoping that they can get the fire under control (only 15% contained today) and I get to open Burro Bridge again.

10 Responses to Fire in the San Juan NF

Yup, the San Juan National Forest has reopened most of their campgrounds, including Burro Bridge. Campers are non existent. Joy in discovering new trails and talking to the marmots. With the fourth of July coming up I expect campers to arrive. Fire is somewhat under control, and the fire fighters are confident. Phew. Could have been so bad.

Glad to know you’re safe! I love that valley too and understand why you would want to return. May it come to pass! Meanwhile I know you will stay out of harms way while the professionals work hard to contain the fire. Looks like it will be a bad year!

Mas Prema, So sorry to here any of our national forests are in danger. I’m in Eastern Washington. Have an extra bedroom, your own bath, washer & dryer, & all the amenities. You’re always welcome. & if you get house phobia, millions of acres of national forests only a stones through away. Be safe my friend & God Bless. 👍🍺

Thank you, Dale. They have reopened the campgrounds. The fire is still going, but they say its under 36% controlled. No campers, yet, but Fourth of July is coming and I expect a crowd. So far I have been alone … loving the marmots, the birds and the quiet. Not much smoke, a blessing.

There is that nice flat spot next to our house too though a few hours from Burro Bridge. We will pray for some rain down that way so you can have your spot back. Be safe ! Our guest room is empty until July 10th if you want your own spot and a tub. xoxo j & B